Watch out for grey leaf spot!

There is another fungus other than brown patch that we are seeing a LOT in St. Augustine lawns right now, and thats grey leaf spot.

Just like brown patch, grey leaf spot pops up in wet conditions, or when there is a lack of of good air circulation in the turf.

Identifying gray leaf spot is not quite as easy as brown patch. Grey leaf spot does not necessarily appear in patched, or defined patterns like other diseases. It basically makes the turf turn yellow, and it can be in a small area very widespread with no particular pattern. When widespread, it is often mistaken for a LACK of water which is the complete opposite of whats really going on.  

To identify grey leaf spot, you will have to get down on your hands and knees and take a look at your grass blades. Infected grass will have numerous brownish/grey spots across the blade, and each spot will have a dark ring around the edge.

With the amount of rain that we have had over the last few weeks, it would have been impossible to prevent grey leaf spot. If you have it, you MUST apply a fungicide. You can also help air circulation by mowing a little shorter.

It’s very important that you pay close attention and frequently look for any signs of grey leaf spot. If left untreated it can and will kill off large portions of your lawn!